Movie review
Parental Guidance
2012 · Comedy · Reviewed Aug 24, 2026
10 / 10
JEFF APPROVED!
Jeff’s final score for Parental Guidance — one man, one couch, one honest number.
This comedy stars Billy Crystal and Bette Midler as grandparents who are tasked with babysitting their three grandchildren while their parents are away. Their old school approach to handling the children soon clash with their parents' modern approach to discipline as they try to connect with their grandchildren by helping each one of the three children handle their own individual issues.
Content noteComedy: some scenes may be unsuitable for young children; mature themes, brief violence, crude humor.
Jeff’s take
I've actually seen this movie enough times that I could have easily wrote a review without watching it. This is one of the more family-oriented comedies I've reviewed as opposed to the movies I'm used to reviewing which are usually only geared to a more mature audience. I don't have much to say about this movie if I'm being honest. There's not much that I find wrong about this movie or that I think could have gone better. It's just an all-around joyful and positive movie to watch. It can be enjoyed by any age demographic and I feel as though it's perfect for families who want to settle in and watch a suitable movie for all ages. I truly believe that this is one of the easiest films I've reviewed up to this point. It's a great movie that I think anybody would enjoy!
Jeff O Meter final score: 10 out of 10.
What works
- Billy Crystal and Bette Midler as the grandparents.
- An all-around joyful and positive movie to watch.
- It can be enjoyed by any age demographic — perfect for families.
What to know before watching
- Some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.
- Mature themes, brief violence, crude humor.
Verdict
Worth watching
It's a great movie that I think anybody would enjoy!
10 / 10
JEFF APPROVED!
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